After failing to sign a midfielder in the summer transfer window, Chelsea are now favored to pursue Adam Wharton in the January transfer window.

Former Crystal Palace player Fraser Campbell believes Chelsea will try to sign Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton in the January transfer window.

According to Football.London, the Blues have long admired the England international and considered making a move this summer. However, Chelsea also knew that Crystal Palace would not let Wharton leave in the recently concluded transfer window.

Chelsea had pursued other midfielders, particularly Lamine Camara, but after failing to secure midfield reinforcements, the team's midfield still lacked depth. The Blues also looked for midfield reinforcements in the free agent market, but opportunities were limited.

It remains to be seen whether Chelsea will act on their long-standing interest in Wharton, but the 22-year-old is bound to remain a focal point of transfer speculation in the coming windows. Campbell believes his former club will have trouble keeping Wharton in the next transfer window.

Campbell told Boylesports: "Anderson, Adam Wharton, and Alex Scott are among a very good group of young midfielders tipped for moves to the top six clubs.

"I was very surprised that there were almost no rumors about Wharton this summer. However, a team like Chelsea, who need midfield reinforcements, might be interested in such a player. It will be interesting to see what happens in January, or even next summer."

Scott, mentioned by Campbell, is also a Chelsea target. The Blues made a £64 million bid in July, but it was rejected by AFC Bournemouth, who were adamant that the 23-year-old would not be sold during the summer window.

Despite AFC Bournemouth's firm stance, Chelsea continued to push for Scott's signing in the latter part of the transfer window. However, the West London club eventually deemed the deal impossible to complete in the final days and moved on to other targets.

Chelsea's persistent pursuit may eventually pay off, as AFC Bournemouth has proven in the past that they are willing to sell key players for the right price. The Blues will continue to monitor the England international closely throughout the season while evaluating other options to strengthen their midfield.

AF's PC site is now live! Browse full news, comments, match details and stats on your computer. Visit: www.allfootballapp.com